Timothy

Before I ask any questions on the forum, I thought it would be polite to introduce myself first. I appreciate the forum takes time to run etc and of course I must admit that like others, I am planning my trip and seeking advise for my own trip, but hopefully my questions and respected answers may help others in the future.

We have been to Crete once before. Stayed at Ibrostar Mirabello in Havania, near Akios Nikolas (East Crete)

Ventured out all the way to Vai, and also went to all the beaches along the way..

Also ventured to Irepetra. Yes I also took the Coast road after all the way along the South East as I love to explore more.

We also visited all the Cretin Villages, even those which are free to visit and not tourist based you can see from the roads.

Went up to the Plateau three times. Visited the wonderful Spinalonga & took a boat from Plaka. Also did Phaphos.

My Uncle & Aunt have an apartment in Elundia, which is a beautiful place.

Cheer up Timothy - the West is great. The major towns are good (Chania is a place I could happily live in), and the White Mountains are big, strong and powerful.

The south west is what Crete is all about for me. The north coast, particularly to the west of Chania, is very touristy. But travel to the south coast and check out Chora Sfakion, Loutro, Sougia, Aghia Roumeli (at the end of the Samaria Gorge), and Paleohora (my favourite place). Get on the boat at Chora Sfakion, and go west.

But whatever you do, I'm sure you'll have a great time. Crete is such a wonderful place!